Swann Galleries - Autographs - Sale 2413

“WE NEED MORETHAN EVERWOMENWHO ARE LEADERS”

201

●

TAFT,WILLIAM HOWARD. Autograph Manuscript Signed, “WmHTaft,” state-

ment on the importance of educating women and enlisting support for Smith College,

probably removed from an autograph album. 2 pages, 3

inches, written on the recto

and verso of a sheet; two small holes punched in left margin. (TFC)

New Haven, 14 June 1920

[700/1,000]

“

We are about to incorporate into our electorate the women of the

need more than

ever women who are leaders.They should be thoroughly educated. Upon the women’s colleges of

the country is thus thrust a greater responsibility than ever.They must have competent faculties

so situated as to do their best work.They must be properly paid to do this. Smith College has a

larger student body of women than any undergraduate institution. Friends of progress should

rally to the support of Smith to secure an adequate fund to enable the college to serve its high

purpose.”

“THE PRESIDENCY . . . HAS NO ATTRACTION FOR ME”

202

●

TAFT,WILLIAM HOWARD.Two Typed Letters Signed,“WmHTaft” or “Bill,” to

Yale classmate Clarence H. Kelsey, each with holograph corrections. The first, as Solicitor

General, urging Kelsey to help restrain Yale alum Timmy Woodruff ’s enthusiastic political

support. With a one-line holograph postscript inquiring about Kelsey’s “valedictorians.”

The second, as Secretary of War, considering the future of his political career. Each 1 page,

4to, “Department of Justice” or “War Department” stationery; each with browning from

previous matting, cello tape remnants from prior matting to each at upper and lower edges

verso, folds. (TFC)

Washington, 12 March 1891; 11 April 1906

[600/900]

1891: “I thank you for your very kind letter to the Pres. I rather think that you would better

rein inTimmyWoodruff. I don’t care much for political support, and I have about all the recom-

mendations from members of the bar of New York and more than I have had any right to

expect. I thank you very much for your interest in the matter. I should be obliged to you if you

would see that Timmy does not go into the political business. I fear the effect of it.”

1906:“. . .You are all wrong in any suspicion as to the President’s motive. I could show you a

letter to me which explains the whole situation. Harry might show it to you if you would go

and see him, because I have sent him a copy. I am not at all decided yet as to what I ought to

do. So far as the Presidency is concerned, it is as remote as possible. It has no attraction for me,

and to me the suggestion that I should wait for that is only a humorous one. . . . ”

201